A Decade of Diamond Dominance: The History of Chestnut Hill College Baseball
Chestnut Hill College, a private Catholic institution nestled in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1924 by the Sisters of St. Joseph. Originally a women's college known as Mount Saint Joseph College until 1938, Chestnut Hill College began admitting male students to its undergraduate programs in 2003, alongside the establishment of a coeducational graduate program in 1980. The college is known for its NCAA Division II athletics program, competing in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC). Among its athletic offerings, the baseball program stands out, marking its 10th anniversary in 2017. This article delves into the history of the Chestnut Hill College baseball program, celebrating its achievements and the individuals who have shaped its success.
The Early Years: Building a Foundation (2008-2010)
The Chestnut Hill College baseball program began its journey in 2008. The inaugural season presented its share of challenges, with the team finishing 7-34 overall and 5-22 in the CACC. Despite the record, the team showcased promise, leading the CACC in stolen bases (94-for-132, .712, 11th nationally) and ranking fourth in home runs (13). Freshmen Dan Etherton '11 and George Kochu '11 emerged as team leaders, earning CACC recognition, while Ryan Weber '11 received the team's Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, and freshman third baseman D.J. Santoro Jr. showed great potential.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Robert Spratt, the Griffins demonstrated progress in 2009, improving to an 18-25 overall record and a 13-14 conference record. Kochu continued to excel, earning the Coach's Award, while freshman Alex Latchum '12 earned all-conference recognition.
The 2010 season marked a significant milestone for the program, with Chestnut Hill College securing its first-ever appearance in the CACC Championship Tournament. Although a first-round loss to Felician College ended their postseason run, the Griffins finished the season with a 16-22 overall record and an 11-9 conference record. Etherton, Henry, and sophomore second baseman Jesse Daywalt '12 received all-conference honors. The team's success was attributed to its strong defense and aggressive base running, ranking 4th in NCAA Division II for double plays per game (1.11) and stolen bases per game (2.87).
Growth and Consistency: Establishing a Program (2011-2017)
The 2011 season saw Chestnut Hill College make its second consecutive appearance in the CACC Championship Tournament, finishing with a 16-22 overall record and a 10-10 league standing. This year also marked the graduation of the program's inaugural class.
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In 2012, Chestnut Hill College achieved a new program record for wins in a single season, posting a 19-23 overall record. Robert Hopkins '13 was named MVP, while Latchum received the Coach's Award. Contributions from Daywalt and freshman infielder Taylor Steen '15 were also vital to the team's success.
The 2013 season proved to be a breakthrough year for the Griffins, as they surpassed expectations and achieved their first 20-win season, finishing 20-27 overall and 10-10 in CACC play. Freshman Brendan Looby '16 was named CACC Rookie of the Year, and sophomore pitcher Dominic Raia III '15 earned All-CACC Second Team honors. The team's late-season surge propelled them to the CACC postseason, where they challenged Wilmington University for the league title.
After a challenging start to the 2014 season, Chestnut Hill College rebounded to post a program-best 12-8 league record, earning the #3 seed in the CACC Championship Tournament. Looby and Raia were recognized on the All-CACC First and Second Teams, respectively.
The 2015 season was truly unforgettable, with the Griffins establishing program records for overall wins (29) and CACC wins (15). The team reached the conference championship for the second time in three years, showcasing their aggressive base-running, consistent pitching, and balanced lineup. Raia was named CACC Pitcher of the Year, and Looby joined him on the All-CACC First Team.
Despite the graduation of Raia, Chestnut Hill College continued to excel in 2016, receiving votes in the NCBWA East Region poll. With increased offense, quality starting pitchers, and a strong bullpen, the team finished with a 25-21 overall record, a 14-6 league standing, and a sixth CACC Championship Tournament appearance in seven seasons.
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The 2017 season marked the 10th anniversary of the Chestnut Hill College baseball program. It was also the Griffins' fourth season with 20 or more wins, their seventh CACC Championship Tournament appearance in the last eight seasons, and their third CACC Championship appearance in the last five seasons.
Recent Successes and Program Identity (2018-Present)
In 2018, Chestnut Hill College achieved its fifth 20-win season in 11 years, qualifying for their eighth CACC Championship Tournament appearance in the last nine seasons. Alec Craig received all-region recognition for his outstanding performance.
The 2019 season saw the Griffins earn their ninth straight CACC Championship Tournament appearance, finishing the regular season in a tie for second place in the CACC South Division. Senior catcher Eric Gilham earned All-East Region First Team honors from multiple organizations, while junior third baseman Ameir Uzzell was named the NCBWA DII East Region Hitter of the Week.
Robert Spratt has been at the helm of the Chestnut Hill College baseball program since its inception in 2008. Under his leadership, the Griffins have consistently competed for the CACC crown and earned regional rankings. Spratt's commitment to his players extends beyond the field, as he focuses on their individual growth and development while instilling a team-first mentality.
Coach Spratt emphasizes the importance of accountability and hard work. His collaboration with assistant coach Matt Owens, a former player in the program, provides a unique dynamic that benefits the team. Owens' experience as a player allows him to connect with the student-athletes on a personal level, offering guidance and support.
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The program's motto, "pride and family," reflects the strong bond and sense of unity that exists within the team. Players are encouraged to make sacrifices for the program, just as they would for their own family, fostering a culture of selflessness and dedication.
Spratt's achievements at Chestnut Hill College include 11 CACC Tournament appearances and three CACC Championship appearances. He has coached 45 All-CACC performers and eight All-Region honorees, including the program's first NCAA Daktronics Division II All-American and the 2015 CACC Pitcher of the Year. Additionally, Spratt has mentored three CACC Rookies of the Year and the 2012 CACC Scholar Athlete of the Year. Five of his players have gone on to sign professional contracts.
Prior to his tenure at Chestnut Hill College, Spratt resurrected the baseball program at Penn State-Abington, leading the team to seven straight playoff appearances, five CCAC Eastern Conference Championships, and a CCAC Championship in 2003.
Hall of Fame
The Chestnut Hill College Athletics Hall of Fame recognizes the outstanding former student-athletes, coaches, and administrators of, as well as contributors to Chestnut Hill College Athletics. The individuals and teams that are selected to the Athletics Hall of Fame have made important contributions to the development and success of Chestnut Hill College Athletics. The inaugural class of the Athletics Hall of Fame was inducted in the fall of 2011. Nomination and selection of the inaugural class was made by the Department of Athletics administration in consultation with the Office of Alumni Relations.
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